The classic line “I’m from the government and I’m here to help” is usually delivered with a sense of irony. But when three representatives from the state’s Region 6 joined a gathering of local officials in the courthouse August 15, they were sincere.
Azar Kayal, Government & Community Relations for District 6 (north central Louisiana) told the group that he wears two hats, also serving at the Regional Director for Region 6 (that’s in south Louisiana) for the Office or Rural Development. With him were Teresa Basco, Region 6 Coordinator for Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, and Dr. Christina Lord, Region 6 Directors for the Louisiana Office of Public Health.
Kayal told the Journal in advance of the session held in the Police Jury meeting room that he had no presentation, per se, but simply uses the travel opportunity to meet with local officials to make personal contacts to assure that help is available from the regional offices. “We’re going from one parish to another to introduce ourselves and explain what we can do. We’re not involved with federal matters but can insure you get the state resources needed.”
After informal remarks to the gathering, Kayal invited comments for discussion. Sheriff Josh McAllister was the first to speak up, observing he’s already dealt with Kayal who has proven to be a good resource. “If ever you need help, go to him,” he advised. Kayal countered “It’s not a one-man issue…this is state government.”
Judge Anastasia Wiley asked “What can we do with people who have behavioral health issues? We have people with mental health problems in our jails who don’t need to be there but there’s no other solution.”
“This is one of four top priorities with our department,” replied Dr. Lord. She said there is actually a separate department on behavioral health within the Department of Health. “We can get in contact. I have numbers for you. We can definitely help.” Kayal concurred. “Reach out to us. We’ll find an answer.”
Stanley Garrett questioned how, if he sells or quits using an old vehicle and stops paying insure, can he avoid a hold on his driver’s license. He heard that he should notify the local Driver’s License Office when he does that. He was also advised to remove his old license at the time of transaction and turn it in to the Driver’s License Office. Also by using the cell phone app “LA Wallet,” he’ll get notifications regarding his driver’s license.
Parish Librarian Priscilla Massey reported that the library has become a repository for numerous forms, some online, such as Social Security and Medicare and most often patrons need staff assistance filling them out. Apart from the related responsibilities about personal information, Massey said she does not have sufficient staff to accommodate. “I know we’re not obligated but we want to help.”
Kayal responded that his office cannot supply staff but emphasized that this is an area where the regional office can put the library in touch with the right people who have the answers. He also suggested that they library may consider partnering with knowledgeable high school seniors who would wish to volunteer. “Volunteerism looks good on a resume.”
The issues of high speed fiber optics being installed to provide internet access of remote areas in Winn and a number of backup generators of public facilities around the parish fell within the discussion area of Teresa Basco. Kayal said it will benefit local law enforcement services while Dr. Lord commented it will help facilitate telehealth services. Basco confirmed, “We’re working on it.”
